Innovation center to rise in Bicol

October 11, 2024

Another TESDA Regional TVET Innovation Center (RTIC) is set to rise, this time in the Bicol Region.

This as Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General, Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez led the groundbreaking ceremony for the center at the San Francisco Institute of Science and Technology in the municipality of Malilipot, Albay last September 30.

In his message, DG Benitez emphasized the center's strategic role in bolstering the technical-vocational education and training (TVET) ecosystem in the Bicol region.

“The San Francisco Institute of Science and Technology, having been identified as the site for an RTIC proves that the region has growing industries and emerging sectors that require advanced technical skills, and a TVET foundation that can support further advancement in terms of technology and innovation”, DG Benitez said.

“This center, which will focus on offering state-of-the-art programs in electrical technician and computer and electronics technology, will serve as a hub for advanced learning and skills development to shape the future of TVET in the region,” the DG added.

Further, Secretary Benitez reaffirmed TESDA’s dedication to making quality training accessible to everyone, ensuring that the new RTIC will offer programs tailored to the needs of both local industries and the global job market.

“The establishment of our Innovation Centers across different locations in the country serves as a marker of our progress in the pursuit of a globally competitive Filipino workforce,” the TESDA chief said.

Also present during the groundbreaking ceremony were TESDA Deputy Directors General Vidal Villanueva III and Felizardo Colambo, as well as other TESDA and local government officials.

It can be recalled that TESDA recently broke ground for the new RTICs in Batangas City, Agusan del Sur, and Sarangani that will house state-of-the-art facilities for different qualifications such as agriculture, electrical, and mechatronics among others.

Meanwhile, aside from the groundbreaking ceremony, Secretary Benitez also visited Albay province and the ongoing construction of the TESDA Provincial Training Center - Albay and held a dialogue with TESDA officials and staff in the region to discuss various programs, projects, accomplishments, and other concerns